HOUSTON (AP) The University of Houston didn't end up needing to go far in replacing head coach Tom Herman.

Major Applewhite, who served as Herman's offensive coordinator the last two seasons, was promoted to the job on Friday. It will be the first head coaching job for the 38-year-old Applewhite.

"We had our sights set on a focused competitor who has demonstrated success and possesses a deep connection to college and high school football in the great state of Texas," Houston athletic director Hunter Yurachek said. "As this process was completed, it was clearly evident the only individual to offer our position to was Major Applewhite and he was indeed the right man to lead our program."